I use cistern water - have done so for 27 years. Underground concrete tank (water in cool and dark won't grow gunk), foot valve 6" above the floor, allowing sediment to settle below intake. Gave up on the filter a long time ago as it seemed to be more trouble that it was worth. I put liquid bleach in it periodically - a quart of bleach for 24,000 gallons of water. It is very nice, soft water - and for me (and those who have visited me over the years) - drinkable.